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The Best Swing Music Ever

Photograph of the blog post author, Annika Hope

Annika Hope

16.2.2023

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The best swing music ever is a subjective matter, as it depends on personal taste. Swing has continued to influence popular music, and it is still performed and recorded today. So we will see who wrote the best swing music out there and the history of this particular genre. Keep reading to find out more. 

What Is Swing Music? 

This popular old-time music is a style of jazz that originated in the early 20th century and developed from the 1920s to the 1940s. It is characterized by a strong rhythm section, a polyphonic ensemble sound, improvisation, and a variety of instrumental and vocal styles. 

History

Also known as “big band music,” swing originated in the 1920s as a form of jazz. It was popularized by the big bands of the 1930s and 1940s, such as the Count Basie Orchestra and the Glenn Miller Orchestra. The style was characterized by a fast tempo and improvisation, as well as a strong emphasis on the rhythm section. 

The music was often arranged in a “call-and-response” format, with the lead instruments trading off solos. During the 1940s, this style became popular in the United States, and it was the dominant form of popular music until the 1950s when it was replaced by rock and roll. 

Who Wrote & Performed The Best Swing Music?

Some of the most popular and iconic songs include Duke Ellington’s “Take the ‘A’ Train,” Count Basie’s “One O’Clock Jump,” Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing,” and Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood.” Other classic swing songs include “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)” by Duke Ellington and “Jumpin’ at the Woodside” by Count Basie.

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Take the ‘A’ Train – Duke Ellington
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Benny Goodman – Sing, Sing, Sing
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Duke Ellington – It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)

What Venues Play Swing Music?

The best examples can be found at jazz clubs, swing dance clubs, and swing-themed events such as Lindy Hop socials. You can also find rare finds at vintage record stores, vintage radio shows, and online streaming services.

Closing Thoughts

Swing music is a great way to get people moving. It has a lively, upbeat tempo that is perfect for dancing, and it is often associated with a feeling of joy and celebration. Swing music has a classic sound that is timeless and appeals to a wide variety of audiences. It is also a great way to bring people together and create a sense of community. So I would suggest listening to some right now, it will really lift your spirits.


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